By Tariq Siyal
ISLAMABAD: Writers, academics and intellectuals of the twin cities praised the contribution of Khadim Hussain Soomro in promoting the message of love and harmony of mystics of Sindh.
They described him an embodiment of Sufism.
They expressed these views while reviewing a book My Speeches on Sufi Thought and Society, by noted author and scholar Khadim Hussain Soomro at the Pakistan Academy of Letters here on Wednesday.
The event was arranged by The Pakistan Intellectual Forum (PIF) and Sindh Sufi Institute (SSI).
Dr Aman Memon, Dr Ravish Nadeem, Dr Manzoor Vesrio, and Tahira Abdullah spoke about the book as well as the contribution of the author to the Sufi literature of Sindh.
“Soomro himself is a practical Sufi”, commented Dr Vesrio.
The author has introduced mysticism and Sindh across the world through his books mostly in the English language, he added.
This was echoed by Dr Memon saying Soomro had taken up the mission of spreading mysticism which is based on love and tolerance.
He said that Sindh boasts of its pluralistic society and humanist culture.
Prof Ravish Nadeem praised Soomro’s contribution in highlighting pluralism, peace and tolerance through his book, which is the need of the hour and sadly ignored by many writers.
Human rights activist Tahira Abdullah traced the roots of Pakistani cultural diversity in South Asian identity.
Ms Abdullah’s views were also seconded by the author. Mr Soomro said that the South Asian region especially Pakistan had remained the centre of Sufism. Sufis have played an important role in making society peaceful and tolerant.
“The rising tide of extremism and intolerance can be eliminated by promoting Sufism in the country. We are the custodian of ancient civilizations of Indus, Harrapa and Mehrgarh where people used to live peacefully.”
He held the global powers for injecting intolerance and promoting extremism for their political ends.
The author, however, clarified that wearing certain colours of dresses and amassing wealth is not Sufism. Sufism teaches love, harmony, social justice, good behaviour, and uprightness in society.
He said that it is very encouraging to see a movement for the revival of the Punjabi language and the promotion of mystic culture in Punjab.
He reminded us that in the recent past voices for the rights of Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi, Seraiki and other languages of Pakistan had been suppressed.
He thanked the PAL and organisers of the event and the encouraging comments from the speakers.